Instructions Following Tooth Removal
- Bite down on gauze for 45 minutes. This will prevent bleeding. If bleeding persists, then bite down for another 45 minutes on new gauze.
- Do not rinse, smoke, or use a straw for 24 hours. Any of these actions will dislodge the blood clot. The blood clot prevents bleeding and is the first step in regenerating the bone in the socket.
- Avoid hot liquids for 24 hours.
- You can eat when the anesthesia wears off; avoid chewing directly on the extraction site.
- If swelling occurs, or to prevent swelling, place ice on the area of extraction within the first 24 hours for about an hour or so: 20 minutes on, 10 minutes off. (Place the ice outside the mouth - use crushed ice in a baggy covered with a dish towel.)
- If swelling appears after the first 24 hours, do not use ice. Begin applying warm, moist heat to the area.
- At this time of day tomorrow, start rinsing your mouth with 6 oz. of warm water containing ¼ teaspoon of salt. Rinse after meals and before bedtime. Rinsing helps keep food particles from collecting in the socket.
- Take medications (if any) as prescribed by Dr. Orr.
- If sutures are used, they may or may not dissolve on their own. Check with Dr. Orr to know when you should return to the office.
- If you have any questions or complications, please contact Dr. Orr at his office phone number, and if after office hours, follow the directions to reach him.
©RBO 2000